Indian Navy rescues Liberian-flagged vessel after drone attack in Gulf of Aden
| 2024-03-06
The Indian Navy came to the rescue of merchant vessel MSC Sky II after an attack by a presumed drone or missile on March 4, 2024
The Indian Navy ensured the safety of the merchant vessel's 23-member crew, including 13 Indians
In an operation reflecting its commitment to global maritime security, the Indian Navy provided essential assistance to the MSC Sky II, a Liberian-flagged container vessel, following its attack by a presumed drone or missile on March 4, 2024.
The Indian Navy thus ensured the safety of the merchant vessel's 23-member crew, including 13 Indians.
According to information shared by the Ministry of Defence, this incident occurred approximately 90 nautical miles southeast of Aden, a critical juncture in the Gulf of Aden, as the vessel journeyed from Singapore to Djibouti. The sudden attack around 7:00 pm IST led to the outbreak of smoke and fire aboard the vessel, putting its entire crew in jeopardy.
Responding with alacrity, INS Kolkata, stationed in the vicinity for mission deployment, was swiftly diverted to the scene post the distress signal. The Indian naval ship reached the embattled vessel by 10:30 pm IST, marking the beginning of a meticulously executed rescue operation. At the request of the MSC Sky II's master, INS Kolkata escorted the beleaguered vessel through the treacherous waters to the safe havens of Djibouti's territorial embrace.
In the early hours of March 5, a specialist firefighting team comprising 12 personnel from INS Kolkata boarded the MSC Sky II. Their proficient efforts extinguished the lingering fires and cleared the smoke, averting a potential disaster. Furthermore, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was dispatched onboard to conduct a thorough risk assessment, ensuring the vessel's safety and security for its onward journey.
The MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, the owning entity of MSC Sky II, acknowledged the vessel's encounter with minor damages, including a fire aftermath, following the Houthi-instigated attack. Despite the perilous circumstances, the timely intervention facilitated the vessel's continued operation, albeit as an "extra vessel" as per MSC's tracking systems, highlighting the precarious security dynamics within the region.
This episode unfolds against the backdrop of India's strategic naval deployment in the vicinity of the Red Sea. Aimed at fortifying maritime security amidst the resurgence of piracy and escalating threats from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi insurgents, India's proactive stance has been pivotal.
With an impressive assembly of over a dozen warships strategically positioned, India's naval vigilance reflects its commitment to safeguarding vital maritime corridors, underscoring its ascending stature in regional and global maritime realms.
This historic naval deployment has reshaped India’s position in global trade and economy.
As the vessel now navigates towards its subsequent port of call, the Indian Navy's intervention stands as a resolute affirmation of its commitment to preserving maritime security, proclaiming a safer passage for seafarers from across the globe.
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